Car SOS rescue Defender to star at Motorfest NI in Ballymena

A Land Rover Defender restored on the television programme Car SOS will take centre stage when Motorfest NI brings cars, motorcycles, trucks and live emergency-service displays to Ballymena this Sunday.

The family event opens to the public at Ballymena Showgrounds at 11am on Sunday 23 August, with admission costing £5. Organisers say 100% of the money raised will go to Community Rescue Service Central.

From television restoration to rescue service

The distinctive Defender underwent a complete restoration on Car SOS, transforming it into the search and rescue vehicle used today.

Since appearing on television, it has become a valued part of the Community Rescue Service fleet, helping its volunteers reach locations across Northern Ireland when assistance is needed.

Motorfest visitors will be able to see the Defender up close, examine the television restoration and hear the story behind the vehicle.

Its appearance will bring together two sides of the event: a celebration of remarkable vehicles and support for the volunteers who put specialist vehicles to practical use.

Road safety message takes centre stage

Motorfest NI will carry an important road safety message this year, with emergency responders demonstrating what happens following a serious road traffic collision.

Firefighters from Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service North will stage a live road crash rescue demonstration, using heavy-duty hydraulic equipment to cut open a vehicle’s doors, remove its roof and reach a simulated casualty.

The demonstration will show visitors how trained crews safely gain access to a damaged vehicle and extricate someone trapped inside—offering a close-up insight into the demanding work carried out at collision scenes.

NI Road Policing and Safety will also attend, promoting safer driving and helping young motorists understand the dangers and responsibilities that come with getting behind the wheel.

Organisers hope the experience will encourage young drivers and families to consider how decisions made on the road can have consequences lasting a lifetime.

Alongside the entertainment and vehicle displays, the message will be clear: greater awareness and responsible driving can save lives.

Away from the emergency-service demonstration, the wider exhibition will feature supercars, modified and performance cars, JDM models, classics, motorcycles, 4x4s and trucks. The 69 Run Club and Limitless Clique are among the motoring groups confirmed to attend.

Show vehicles welcomed from 9am

Owners displaying vehicles can enter Ballymena Showgrounds from 9am, ahead of the public opening at 11am.

Show-car entry costs £10, while general public admission is £5. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or paid for at the entrance on Sunday.

Card payments will be accepted, although organisers have said cash is preferred where possible.

Food, traders and family entertainment

Food and refreshment stalls will operate during the event, offering hot food and chips, freshly prepared pizzas, ice cream and coffee.

A range of trade stands will also give visitors an opportunity to browse and buy throughout the day, while family entertainment will run alongside the vehicle exhibition.

Parking will be available, with drivers asked to enter through St Patrick’s Link Road. Accessible parking will be provided for disabled visitors.

The event’s main sponsors are CPHire Ltd and Northern Materials Handling.

Advance tickets are available here.

With gates opening at 11am, visitors can pay on arrival or book beforehand—and every admission will help Motorfest NI raise funds for Community Rescue Service Central.

Quick Guide

• Event: Motorfest NI 2026

• Date: Sunday 23 August 2026

• Venue: Ballymena Showgrounds

• Show-vehicle entry: 9am

• Public opening: 11am

• Public admission: £5

• Show-vehicle entry: £10

• Tickets: Online or at the entrance

• Booking: https://buytickets.at/crs/2324173

• Payment: Cash or card; cash preferred where possible

• Parking entrance: St Patrick’s Link Road

• Accessible parking: Available

• Beneficiary: Community Rescue Service Central